y = x*(x-2)^-1/2. Prove dy\dx = (x-4)/2*(x-2)^3/2

Firstly, when approaching a differentiation question you need to work out what method you need to use to solve it. As you can see there are two terms multiplied by one another (the 'x' term and the '(x-2)-1/2' term), therefore the product rule must be used. 

Making u = x and v = (x-2)-1/2

du/dx = 1 dv/dx = -1/2*(x-2)-3/2

Substituing these things into the Product Rule equation we get: 

dy/dx = -x/2*(x-2)-3/2 + (x-2)-1/2

Now we need to focus on manipulating this equation to match the one given in the question. To start with we will take out a factor of (x-2)-3/2 giving: 

dy/dx = (x-2)-3/2*(-x/2 + x-2) 

Simplyfying : 

dy/dx = (x-2)-3/2* (x/2 -2)

Multiplying by 2 : 

dy/dx = (x-4)/2*(x-2)3/2

GR
Answered by Graham R. Maths tutor

7294 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

curve C with parametric equations x = 4 tan(t), y=5*3^(1/2)*sin(2t). Point P lies on C with coordinates (4*3^(1/2), 15/2). Find the exact value of dy/dx at the point P.


Find the derivative (dy/dx) of the curve equation x^2 -y^2 +y = 1.


Differentiate y = (x^2 + 1)^1/3


Integrate (x^2)(e^x) with respect to x


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning